USA: Tommy Hilfiger taps Gap’s Ermatinger as Asia CEO.

As its first chief executive officer for Asia, Ermatinger will oversee all business activities in the region, including the subsidiary Tommy Hilfiger Japan, the joint venture Tommy Hilfiger China, and various licensed businesses throughout the territory.

Based in the Tommy Hilfiger Hong Kong offices, he will report to Fred Gehring, CEO of the Tommy Hilfiger Group.

“The company has a strong presence in the majority of Asian markets, but we believe that an increased effort led by a seasoned executive such as John will further enhance our presence,” said Fred Gehring, CEO of the Tommy Hilfiger Group.

“We have learned from our experience in Europe that the business benefits greatly when subtle adaptations and focused, regionally relevant dedication is applied.

“John is the ideal candidate to successfully lead the company’s great growth opportunities in Asia, given his broad experience as a global retail executive with particular expertise in this region.”

Ermatinger, who was president of Gap Asia Pacific for two years and president of Gap Japan for three years before taking the Old Navy role in April, said: “I believe that the Tommy Hilfiger core brand DNA makes it very attractive to the youthful Asian market and that the base from which we will be working is already quite significant through the territory.

“There is great opportunity for significant growth, and I look forward to building the business by further improving the overall proposition as it relates to the specific needs of this large market.”

Prior to Gap, he was the general manager of Asia Pacific apparel and Asia hub director of global apparel sourcing for Nike Inc.